“The White Stairs of Heaven”

#chinatravel Iconic Icon — Baishuitai White Water Terraces The Baishuitai White Water Terraces (白水台) are famous for their natural, layered limestone terraces, which look like giant white steps or shallow pools flowing down a hillside. They were formed over thousands of years by calcium-rich spring water that leaves behind dazzling white deposits as it flows — similar to Pamukkale in Turkey, but hidden in Yunnan, China. These terraces are not only stunning to see but are also sacred to the local Naxi people, who believe Baishuitai is the birthplace of their Dongba religion and culture. Visitors come to admire the glowing white layers, clear pools reflecting the sky, and the peaceful mountain scenery around them.